Arnau Martinez
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal have submitted a formal proposal to La Liga side Girona for the transfer of 22-year-old defender Arnau Martinez, according to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna.
The Gunners’ bid is believed to be worth €8 million upfront, with an additional €2 million in performance-related bonuses, potentially bringing the total value to €10 million. The move comes as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his defensive options following fitness concerns over right-backs Jurrien Timber and Ben White.
Timber, who starred in Arsenal’s 5-0 win over Leeds United with two goals and an assist, has been carefully managed since returning from ankle surgery earlier this summer. The Dutchman was a substitute in the opening-day clash against Manchester United and missed the final training session before facing Leeds.
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Arteta admitted the club is easing him back gradually. “On Jurrien, we have to manage his load,” the Arsenal boss said. “He’s been out for a long time, and he comes from a long-term injury. We had a long week, so we decided to take his training down a little, especially during the open session.”
Arnau Martinez
Arnau Martinez (Image credit: Getty Images)
White also missed the Leeds fixture due to fitness problems, leaving Arsenal short of options in defence. Arteta is now seeking reliable cover to navigate a demanding season.
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Martínez, a Girona academy graduate, has made 163 appearances for the Catalan club, contributing nine goals and 18 assists, an impressive return for a defender. His consistent displays have previously attracted interest from Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayer Leverkusen, though a transfer never materialised.
Girona are reportedly weighing up Arsenal’s proposal. Martínez’s recent omission as an unused substitute against Villarreal has fuelled speculation that he may be open to a move.
With the transfer window entering its final stretch, Arsenal will be eager to complete the deal as they look to reinforce a backline already stretched by injuries and a congested fixture list.
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